Merdeka 2016

What a great way to celebrate Merdeka, with good friends over an indulgent lunch followed by chit-chat over coffee. The original plan was to go for a walk in the morning prior, but that of course did not come to fruition. 

Sharing a meal and banter with friends on Independence Day has much meaning, particularly so when these are friends whom I first got to know during early childhood, in primary school in fact. Those were the days when our outlook in life was shaped, where we did not pay too much attention to our ethnicities, a trait I would like to think many of us still carry with us.

As we embark on a another year in our nation's journey, here's to peace, harmony, equality and happiness to all Malaysia! 

Lunch at Jaipur Curry House in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Olympic Park In Beijing

With the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics coming up next month, it seems appro-priate to have visited the Olympic Park in Beijing a couple of weeks back. 

I remember vividly watching the 2008 Olympic Games, awed by the stunning images of the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, venues in which the best in the world showed off their athletic prowess and revelled in their performances after much training and sacrifice. To see these architectural feats in person is indeed an experience that I am grateful for. 

When upfront with these innovative structures, one gets a sense of inspiration. Inspiration to move forward with faith and hope, embracing the challenges and rewards that life has to offer. Indeed, I see such inspiration as a catalyst to work towards greater things in life.

Trying to run at the Olympic Park in Beijing, China.

Family Trip 2016

Every year I take a family vacation with my Mum and sister. This year we headed to Hanoi. Although I have been to Vietnam on a number of occasions, this was my first visit to Hanoi. 

Compared to Saigon and Hoi An, I found Hanoi slightly less progressive in terms of tourism infrastructure. Nevertheless, I am not one to be discouraged when on holiday and certainly had an enjoyable time. We left the planning of the trip to my Mum. Other than booking the flights and hotel, places of interest to see and eateries to patronise were planned by Mum. In a sense by doing so, it offered an element of surprise somewhat, always a good thing while on holiday.

Family trips as such allow us to bond, but it is not without its stress-inducing moments either. Varying interests and expectations sometimes come to the fore, as differing taste buds too. However, when all is said and done, a sense of family reigns supreme and a worthwhile trip is what matters most. 

Photo shot on the Aerotrain at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

2016

It's the first day of 2016 and here's to a great year ahead in all aspects of life. The good wishes and optimistic sentiments that have been reverberating since yesterday I am sure will have a positive impact as the year unfolds.

 

Starting off the year with a healthy breakfast, a short stint in the gym followed by a swim, is my way of putting in place an aspiration to live a healthier lifestyle henceforth. Having said that, there is also much enjoyment to partake in and indulgence is still very much part of my nature. Let's just say I shall try to strike a good balance.

 

As we embark on a new year, I look forward to rewarding experiences and encounters, and I sincerely hope you will be a part of such memorable occasions. Happiness and good health to all!

 

 

A morning swim.

Festive Season 2015

This festive season has been a whirlwind of activities, mostly of the eating kind though, with the extended family and close friends. Communion over food makes such gatherings more meaningful, enhancing the festivities with a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

 

As the year draws to a close, I am grateful for many things. A relatively good year in terms of business and career. Friendships that have been nurtured and strengthened. Even closer family ties. Some travel. Strength of character when overcoming challenges.

 

Most of all, I think I have over the past year, become more comfortable in seeing life in a wider perspective. And perhaps have even taken to embracing the adage que sera sera. Let's see what 2016 has in store.

 

 

Christmas decor and presents.